About Ottawa
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located at the confluence of three rivers in Ontario. It is home to many of Canada's national institutions, such as the Parliament Buildings and Supreme Court, making it a significant political center. Additionally, Ottawa is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes — one can find everything from beautiful beaches to rocky hills dotted with pine trees making it the perfect spot for intimate weddings.
The city also has a thriving culture and art scene, including museums and galleries celebrating Canadian heritage and modern contemporary exhibitors. It is an increasingly popular destination for intimate weddings, thanks partly to its dynamic atmosphere and diverse outdoor settings. As a fun fact — Ottawa was known initially as Bytown when it was established in 1826 — only officially changing its name to Ottawa in 1855!
Intimate Wedding Options in Ottawa
- Musicians
Incorporating live music into your intimate wedding is an excellent way to set the tone and create a memorable experience for guests. Choose from various musical genres to make sure your big day stands out!
- Florist
Unlock the potential of your wedding in Ottawa by adding a florist! With their expertise, you can choose flowers that complement the day's color scheme and theme. Furthermore, seasonal blooms and foliage will be seamlessly incorporated into all arrangements to evoke a unique ambiance on your special day.
- Event Planner
An experienced event planner can help reduce the tension of planning a wedding, as they will take care of all the minutiae — from reserving venues and vendors to managing timelines and logistics. This way, you and your significant other can savor every moment while enjoying this special day.
- Dress & Tuxedo
Picking the perfect dress or tux for your intimate wedding in Ottawa is a must. There's an abundance of options available to both men and women, so you will undoubtedly find something that brings out the best qualities of the couple on their big day.
Intimate Wedding Vendors in Ottawa
- The Dave Ward Trio
The Dave Ward Trio has been charming listeners for the past three decades with its take on bosses and well-known jazz tunes. With their profound knowledge of the music industry and many years in the business, they give you a fantastic show every time. Their music can provide the perfect atmosphere for any event, whether a wedding reception or corporate function. They've even been honored to provide music for a cocktail reception hosted by President George Bush himself.
- Heirloom Events and Decor
Heirloom Events and Decor specializes in wedding planning and design. Their team consists of planners, designers, florists, coordinators, and a production crew based in Ottawa but can assist with weddings worldwide. They aim to create dream weddings by caring for every detail, from sourcing and creating every element to perfecting the décor.
- Luxe Blooms
A wedding day is a momentous occasion, and they strive to give you the wedding of your dreams at Luxe Blooms. Here at the shop, you can expect lavish flowers and one-of-a-kind arrangements. Also, their highly qualified team will happily collaborate with you to ensure your event is everything you dreamed of. They'll help in arrangements, whether you're planning a small get-together or an extravagant affair.
Pros and Cons of Intimate Weddings in Ottawa
When planning a wedding, there are many factors: location, budget, guest list size, and the type of wedding you want to have. Intimate weddings are becoming increasingly popular for couples looking to tie the knot in Ottawa. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making your decision.
Advantages
- Since there are fewer people, you can save on costs like catering and decorations.
- You can take the time to interact with your guests and enjoy their company.
- Intimate weddings can be more personal, allowing you and your guests to enjoy each other's company.
Disadvantages
- You may need more flexibility regarding your venue choices in an intimate wedding.
- Due to the smaller guest count, you may need to get creative with where you host your wedding ceremony and reception.
- Small weddings sometimes feel slightly "underwhelming" compared to their bigger counterparts.
- Although it is a personal choice, small weddings are often more intimate and budget-friendly. If you're looking for an uncomplicated way to celebrate your wedding day, an intimate wedding might be the right option.
Tips on How to Organize Intimate Weddings in Ottawa
Planning a small wedding doesn't have to be overwhelming! With systematic preparation and proper organization, you can create an intimate celebration that is both joyous and unique for all in attendance. To get started, here are some valuable tips:
- Choose a venue: It should be intimate and unique. A small hotel or bed and breakfast would be ideal.
- Invite only your closest: The circle of family and friends will make the event more memorable and meaningful.
- Plan an itinerary: Consider activities such as scenic walks or visiting a local winery.
- Capture the moment: Making plenty of photos and videos will help you relive the experience for years.
Famous Locations in Ottawa
- Mer Bleue Bog
Mer Bleue Bog is a gorgeous natural landscape located in Ottawa, Canada. It's home to many rare plants and animals, and it gets its name from the blue mist that often rolls across the bog in the mornings. The bog is located south of where most bogs are typically found; this landscape is more typical near the boreal forest in northern regions. The Mer Bleue Bog is an excellent place for southern Canadians and is home to the endangered spotted turtle.
- Major's Hill Park
Majors Hill Park is one of Ottawa’s most popular tourist destinations, and it's easy to see why. The park offers stunning views of walking paths, the river, seasonal events, and gardens, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two. And what's more, the park is also central to Canada Day celebrations, so you can be sure there's always something going on. If you're looking for a fun-filled day out, Majors Hill Park is the place.
- "Cottage" Gas Station
This small service station, built in 1934, is a true architectural gem. American architect Carl-August Petersen designed the Tudor Revival style to resemble old English cottages with rounded doorways, windows, chimneys, and steeply-pitched roofs. In the early 1930s, when car ownership rapidly increased, it served as one of Ottawa's first drive-in gas stations. It stayed open until the late 1960s when it became a used car dealership. A few new owners bought the land and building between 2014-2018, with plans to turn it into a mixed-use property.
